Raffner B M, Eckert M T

Abstract: A "productivity revolution" had been the driving force behind the almost decade long rise in the strength of the U.S. economy. Leaner, more efficient and more highly automated companies have been increasing their productivity, gaining market share and enhancing their profitability. The foundry industry has been a full participant in the productivity revolution. From the arrival of charge materials on site, until finished castings are shipped to customers, today's best foundries take advantage of a wide variety of new technologies and advanced equipment. They also have found better ways of conducting their business, ranging from careful cost control to more aggressive and more targeted marketing efforts. This paper focuses on the melt shop and on the productivity-enhancing technologies that are being used here.

Keywords: Castings, Melt shop, Productivity, Revolution.